Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Interestingly, even though IBS is one of the most common Western conditions, medical professionals still know little about it or what causes it. Most the information you will read online is based upon theories. This is why when you see a doctor about IBS they may prescribe Anti-depressants. Shocking I know, but there is some evidence (some) to support that the tricyclic antidepressants (TCA’s) help with diarrhea and constipation. However, drugs are never the long-term answer. Sure they may help symptoms for a while, but at what cost? What else are these drugs doing to your body?

So, what exactly is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you’ll need to manage long term.

Only a small number of people with IBS have severe signs and symptoms. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. More-severe symptoms can be treated with medication and counseling. IBS doesn’t cause changes in bowel tissue or increase your risk of colorectal cancer. Source: Mayoclinic Patient & Healthcare Information, Diseases & Conditions, Irritable Bowle Syndome.

Gut troubles always lead back to microbiome imbalance

The digestive system is amazing. It is also the largest functioning organ in the human body that we are still making discoveries about. In fact, it’s only been in recent years that the interest of the microbiome has taken centre stage. Even though 2000 years ago Hippocrates said, “All disease begins in the gut.” If you break that statement down, Hippocrates is quite right. To survive we need to eat, our digestive system is where food is broken down and the all important nutrients and minerals are dispersed to their rightful place, but if the gut isn’t functioning properly, then how can we expect the rest of us to?

Take control of your gut health

Taking control of your gut health can be the most empowering experience and that’s thanks to many of the researchers and scientists who are working hard to make new discoveries. Our gut microbiome is becoming one of the most ground-breaking discoveries for health in decades. Understanding that the microbiome has influence over many aspects of our health is important, and because we know this we need to know how to keep it healthy. Having a diverse diet of dietary-fibre, plant-based foods and animal products are important to feeding the gut. But, it’s not just the foods you need to know what to eat, it’s also how to eat them. Check out some of our recipes.